Consumer Blog

Wage garnishment is when an employer has to take money out of an employee's paycheck to pay off a debt. This can happen if someone owes money for things like child support, taxes, student loans, or other debts. There are two types of garnishment: wage garnishment and non-wage garnishment. Non-wage garnishment is when a court orders a person's bank to take money out of their account. If an employer doesn't follow the law and take out the right amount of money, they can get in trouble and have to pay fines or even be taken to court. The amount of money that can be taken out of an employee's paycheck depends on how much they make and what they owe. It's important for employers to follow the rules and seek help from an attorney if needed.

A recent survey by Bankrate has found that a growing number of Americans are struggling to save for emergencies due to high inflation and increasing interest rates. Over a third of respondents had more credit card debt than emergency savings, up from 22% a year ago. Many people are using their emergency savings or taking on credit card debt to cope with the current economic situation. Respondents cited inflation or unemployment as the biggest barriers to saving more. To avoid financial stress, it's important to prioritize emergency savings by setting a budget, cutting unnecessary expenses, and considering debt consolidation or debt relief options to free up money for savings.

Despite a housing market slowdown, foreclosure rates across the US have increased for almost two years. Real estate data analysis by Attom showed that Florida had some of the highest levels in the past year, highlighting issues of availability and affordability. Mortgage lenders completed almost 4,000 repossessions in January, up 6% from December but down 19% from the year before, according to Attom’s data. The ability to afford a home remains difficult, with the 30-year fixed rate increasing to 6.12%, and addressing the affordability concern remains an issue that both federal and state officials and lawmakers are trying to solve.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers several benefits for the average consumer struggling with debt. These benefits include protection from foreclosure, stopping creditor harassment, paying off debt, keeping property, and improving credit score. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows individuals to repay their debt over a three to five-year period, with a payment plan established by the bankruptcy court. Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy will have a negative impact on credit score, but can also be an opportunity for individuals to start fresh and rebuild their credit. It's important to consult a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney to determine if Chapter 13 is the right option.

A blog post was written for a consumer lawyer website, Florida Consumer Lawyers, which offers legal representation for homeowners facing foreclosure. The post highlights the benefits of having legal representation during the foreclosure process, such as understanding rights and options, negotiating with lenders, exploring alternative solutions, and ensuring that rights are protected. The post also emphasizes the expertise of Florida Consumer Lawyers in providing personalized, compassionate representation to homeowners. The post concludes by encouraging readers to contact the firm for a free consultation.

Inaccurate and sloppy credit reporting practices by TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian as well as other information providers is preventing consumers from getting housing in this difficult rental market.

Credit card debt levels and interest rates are reaching historical highs leaving consumers few options to get out of debt.

Credit card balances are at an all time high and there is no relief in sight for most consumers. Now is the time to plan around your debt strategically and speak with Florida Consumer Lawyers today.

U.S. hospitals are now suing patients for debts or threatening their credit. In many instances they are even denying care to patients with outstanding balances.

The latest court trend are debt collectors foreclosing homes for defaulted second mortgages that homeowners haven't heard about for more than decade

I haven't been able to restart my mortgage payments after my Covid Forbearance expired. Will I lose my home to foreclosure?

If you're being harassed by debt collectors we may be able to sue them and win you money.

If you are facing foreclosure you need to hire a foreclosure lawyer or you are practically guaranteed to lose your home.

The average student in 2022 graduates with more than $40,000 in student loan debt. making it the 2nd highest debt number in US households, only behind mortgages. With student loan debt spiraling out of control, it is no wonder that activist judges are bending over backwards to protect lenders and prevent student loan forgiveness plans from starting.

Banks and hospitals are cashing in on the most ridiculous idea we've ever heard. Medical credit cards. Having a baby, just charge it at 27% interest. Just another scam out of a broken system that continues targeting consumers who can least afford it.

Credit card debt is a necessary evil for most consumers in today's economy. Consumers are using credit cards to make ends meet and not to purchase frivolous or luxury items. There are strategies that you can use to leverage credit cards and ultimately get rid of your debt, but sacrifices will have to be made.

Florida home prices are already sliding but 2023 looks like the year for a large decline. While most are no saying 5-10% price declines are coming, the reality will probably be much worse.

Even though new credit scoring rules will help collection accounts drop of credit, your lenders won't be so forgiving.

Existing home sales crashed sharply in August. Mortgage rates now up to 6.25%. The correction is here and the worst is yet to come.

Here is what you can expect as the housing downturn spreads across America

A new report revealed that more than 60% of consumers carry credit card debt for more than a year and 25% if consumers use credit cards to cover daily costs of living.

The Buy Now Pay Later credit model is starting to compete against credit cards and costing consumers significantly more money than every before.

Borrowing costs for mortgages have doubled in the last nine months as the Federal Reserve continues raising interest rates to fight inflation.